Simplicity in 2021

sim·plic·i·ty
/simˈplisədē/

noun
the quality or condition of being easy to understand or do.

The following quote illustrates a thought on simplicity that I have been pondering on today:

“Silence frees us from the need to control others. One reason we can hardly bear to remain silent is that it makes us feel so helpless. We are accustomed to relying upon words to manage and control others. A frantic stream of words flows from us in an attempt to straighten others out. We want so desperately for them to agree with us, to see things our way. We evaluate people, judge people, condemn people. We devour people with our words. Silence is one of the deepest Disciplines of the Spirit simply because it puts the stopper on that.

When we become quiet enough to let go of people, we learn compassion for them.” -Richard J. Foster Freedom of Simplicity:Finding Harmony in a Complex World

Simplicity: my word for 2021.

I am choosing “simplicity” as my focus in the coming year.

Simplicity is the cymbol that I hope to keep sounding out in the orchestra of my life this year.

Simplicity is the reason for not saying yes to questions that require no answers.

Simplicity is simply being forthright, and not having a hidden agenda or supporting those who do.

Simplicity inspires authenticity and gives a clearer focus on what is most important.

Simplicity weeds out distractions and joy killers.

I long to accomplish a great and noble task; but my chief duty is to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.
-Hellen Keller

It is easy to entangle the simple things in life with our unrealistic goals, well meaning overextended committments, and seemingly normal intrusions of chaos and confusion.

Therefore, I plan on devoting more effort to avoiding the anxiety inducing simplicity stealing threats that get fired at me like little the little bombs on the Space Invaders types of video games. Dodging the “complications” bombs can be tricky, but I think it will be worth some extra effort if it produces a more peaceful lifestyle.

I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in.
– George Washington Carver

Just like those inconspicuous piles of junk that gather around the house if I don’t organize and clean up my living space, worrisome and energy draining activities and projects pile up and prevent me from doing my best at the important parts of life.

One goal in choosing to focus on simplicity this year is to strengthen my faith through applying attention to the crucial priniciples instead of losing details by adding too many extras to my agenda. Another is to deepen my relationships by live a freer and fuller life that gets more of what I value done with the ones who are the most significant to me. If I leave more time for the things I really care about, I spend less time on things that don’t matter. Simplicity has room for spontenaity but without planning and scheduling the chaos is more likely to overrun the objectives of my goal to simplify things.

The following Bible verses are my scriptural basis for seeking more simplicity in my own life during 2021:

2 Corinthians 1:12
Matthew 6:21
Psalm 116:6-
Matthew 6:33
1 Corinthians 14:33

God lives in humility and simplicity.
William Marrion Branham

In many ways, it is a principle that I have tried to practice for many years but this year I think I must tackle it with a renewed mindset to enjoy the promising benefits of this urgency I feel to focus on Simplicity in 2021.

What are some ways that you simplify your life?

Please share suggestions in the comments.